VS

Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Nissan Altima - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (281 HP vs 188 HP), trunk space and price (28,800 $ vs 27,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Hyundai Santa Cruz or Nissan Altima?

Hyundai Santa Cruz vs Nissan Altima: Key differences

Hyundai Santa Cruz

  • markedly more power

Nissan Altima

  • marginally cheaper
  • a bit more efficient
  • a bit lighter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Santa Cruz

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Nissan Altima is marginally cheaper – starting at 27,000 $ , while the Hyundai Santa Cruz costs 28,800 $ . That’s a price difference of around 1,750 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Nissan Altima performs a bit better – achieving 27 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Hyundai Santa Cruz. That’s a difference of about 5 mpg.

Altima

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Hyundai Santa Cruz offers markedly more power – delivering 281 HP compared to 188 HP. That’s roughly 93 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Hyundai Santa Cruz delivers significantly more torque with 311 lb-ft compared to 180 lb-ft. That’s about 131 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Nissan Altima is a bit lighter – 3,255 lbs compared to 3,779 lbs. The difference is around 524 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is barely ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $28,800
Santa Cruz

Hyundai Santa Cruz

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 191 - 281 HP
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Nissan Altima

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

General

View detailed analysis

Hyundai Santa Cruz

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a city-friendly pickup with SUV manners, serving up a smooth ride and a surprisingly upscale cabin while still handling weekend projects without the drama. It doesn’t try to out-macho the big rigs; instead it wins with smart packaging, easy parking, and just enough adventure vibe to make every grocery run feel like a mini road trip.

details

Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima continues to distinguish itself with a refined balance of comfort and performance, making it a popular choice in the midsize sedan segment. Its sleek exterior design is complemented by a spacious and well-appointed interior, offering both driver and passengers a comfortable journey. With advanced safety features and intuitive technology, the Altima remains a top contender for those seeking reliability and modernity in their daily drives.

details
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Nissan Altima

Costs and Consumption

Price
28,800 - 42,800 $
Price
27,000 - 34,800 $
FuelEconomy City
18 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy City
25 - 27 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 - 30 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 39 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
17.7 gal
Fuel tank capacity
16 - 16.2 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Pickup
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,779 - 4,295 lbs
Curb weight
3,255 - 3,490 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
15.4 cu. ft.
Length
195.9 in.
Length
192.9 in.
Width
75 in.
Width
72.9 in.
Height
66 in.
Height
56 - 57 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
191 - 281 HP
Power HP
182 - 188 HP
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Torque
178 - 180 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Nissan
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.